A groundbreaking moment in the UAE’s history is upon us. Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the northernmost emirate, is gearing up to host the country’s first casino at the Wynn Marjan Island Resort. This $3.9 billion luxury development will not only redefine entertainment in the region but also open doors to a booming gaming industry in a traditionally gambling-restricted area.
Wynn Marjan Island Resort: The Details Unveiled
Set to open in 2027, the Wynn Marjan Island Resort is more than a casino. It’s a luxury haven sprawling across 5.6 million square feet of prime beachfront real estate. The project aims to set new standards in hospitality, offering:
- 1,500 luxury accommodations, including suites and villas.
- 120,000 square feet of high-end retail spaces.
- A unique theatre hosting its own production show.
- A dedicated gaming area that spans at least 4% of the total floor space.
- 24 restaurants and bars catering to all tastes—from chic fine dining to vibrant nightlife destinations.
An additional 115-acre site has been earmarked for long-term development, highlighting the grand scale and ambition of this project.
The resort will be the centrepiece of Al Marjan Island, a man-made development stretching into the Arabian Gulf. This four-island complex, shaped like coral, is expected to accommodate 20,000 residents and visitors once fully developed.
Why Ras Al Khaimah Is Rolling the Dice
RAK has often been in the shadow of glitzy Dubai and opulent Abu Dhabi. But with this project, the emirate is positioning itself as a rising star in global tourism. The UAE’s regulatory authority granted Wynn a commercial gaming license in October, with an attractive tax rate of 10% to 12% on gross gaming revenue (GGR). This structure mirrors Singapore’s, which has proven highly successful.
Projections suggest the resort could generate $390 million to $570 million in annual EBITDA, with affluent international tourists contributing significantly to revenues. Wynn’s CEO Craig S. Billings has called the UAE the most exciting new market for the gaming industry in decades.
Regional Shockwaves
While not the first casino in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region—Egypt, Morocco, and Lebanon already host gaming venues—Wynn Marjan Island is unique in its scale and vision. Analysts predict the UAE could soon rival Las Vegas as a premier gaming destination, especially as other emirates begin to eye the potential revenue.
MGM Resorts is already developing a $2.5 billion non-gaming project in Dubai, while Abu Dhabi has expressed interest in exploring casino licenses. Yet, with a five-year head start, Wynn RAK is poised to dominate the market initially.
The Regional Competition Landscape
| Country | Casino Availability | Integrated Resorts | Gaming Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE (RAK) | First in 2027 | Yes | Newly established |
| Egypt | Yes | No | Long-standing |
| Morocco | Yes | No | Well-regulated |
| Lebanon | Yes | No | Restricted access |
The UAE’s approach, combining world-class infrastructure with targeted regulation, offers a competitive edge.
The Construction Marvel
The Wynn Marjan Island Resort construction is advancing at a remarkable pace. With over 9,000 workers on-site and 55% of the structural concrete complete as of November, the project is well on track. One floor is being completed weekly, aiming for structural completion by December 2025.
The development has also spurred real estate interest in RAK, with land prices soaring in anticipation of the resort’s opening. Wynn’s $900 million investment for a 40% stake in the project reflects its confidence in the emirate’s potential.
The Future of Gaming in the UAE
The UAE’s cautious yet progressive move into the gaming sector is significant. While online casinos remain off-limits, the Wynn project signals a shift in the country’s approach to diversifying its economy and tourism offerings. The resort is expected to not only attract high-net-worth individuals but also enhance the UAE’s standing as a global entertainment hub.
Craig S. Billings summed it up: “This resort will be a must-see tourism destination, supporting strong long-term growth and positioning the UAE as a leader in luxury gaming experiences.”
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